Total Elbow Arthroplasty for Intra-articular Fractures of the Distal Humerus

Summary: Although open reduction and internal fixation is the treatment of choice for most intra-articular distal humeral fractures, this technique can be challenging in certain patients. Severe osteopenia, intra-articular fracture comminution, and preexisting degeneration are conditions of the elbow that can complicate attempts at fixation in the elderly patient. Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) as a treatment method for such fractures has several theoretical advantages, and some recent evidence indicates it may be an ideal solution for some patients. Technical simplicity, decreased operative time, lower complication rate, and easier, quicker rehabilitation are all features that make TEA an attractive option. The authors discuss the indications, contraindications, and technique of semiconstrained total elbow arthroplasty for intraarticular fractures of the distal humerus in the elderly patient.